Joe Harris, one of the NBA's most consistent three-point marksmen, has officially announced his retirement from the league after a commendable 10-year career. Harris, best known for his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets, leaves the court as the fifth-highest three-point shooter in NBA history with an impressive 43.5% conversion rate from beyond the arc.
From Virginia to the NBA
Harris’ journey began at the University of Virginia, where he spent four decisive years honing his skills. His college career was marked by numerous accolades, including two-time All-ACC honors. In 2014, Harris was instrumental in leading Virginia to a stellar 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and a memorable Sweet Sixteen appearance. His performances earned him a spot on the All-ACC Tournament team and the prestigious title of ACC Tournament MVP.
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris' early professional years were mired with limited playtime. Over his first two seasons, he struggled to find his footing in the league, constrained to sparse minutes on a Cavaliers team stacked with established talent.
Nets' Cornerstone
The turning point in Harris' career came in 2016 when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets. Initially joining as a role player, Harris quickly demonstrated his value, averaging 22 minutes per game in his debut season. His breakout came two seasons later when he secured a spot as a full-time starter. During the 2018-2019 season, Harris averaged 13.7 points per game and led the NBA in three-point shooting with an astounding 47.4% from deep.
The 2020-21 season saw Harris reach new heights. On a Nets team featuring superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, Harris again led the league in three-point shooting percentage while averaging a career-high 14.1 points per game. His exceptional shooting earned him the title of the NBA’s three-point champion during the 2019 All-Star Weekend's Three-Point Contest.
Challenges and Comebacks
Despite his success, Harris' career faced significant challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries, limiting his participation to just 14 games in a subsequent season. However, demonstrating resilience, Harris returned to the Nets lineup, showing flashes of his prior form.
Final Chapter
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, but his time there was short-lived. A shoulder sprain restricted him to just 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline. Deciding that his body could no longer sustain the rigors of professional basketball, the 32-year-old Harris chose to step away from the game.
Harris' career averages, including 10.3 points, three rebounds per game, and a 47.9% field goal percentage, underscore his efficiency and consistency. A key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, Harris made a lasting impact with his elite shooting and professionalism on and off the court.
As Harris transitions to the next chapter of his life, his legacy as one of the most proficient shooters in NBA history will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the league and fans alike.